la Balena
Junipero between 5th and 6th, Carmel, 250-6295, labalenacarmel.com
Carmel’s popular la Balena is all about serving Tuscan food utilizing the best available local ingredients – how can you go wrong? Housemade pasta comprises the heart of the menu, and includes highlights like a squid ink seafood pasta and bucatini with pesto and prawns. Not a pasta person? The fried chicken here is local foodie-approved and beloved. Don’t be surprised if you run into other chefs dining here – a serious stamp of approval.